Mark McGwire redefined professional baseball power hitting by recording 583 career home runs over 16 seasons in Major League Baseball. Standing 6 feet 5 inches tall, the American first baseman transitioned from a standout college career at the University of Southern California to becoming one of the most prolific offensive threats in the history of the sport.
Early Development and Amateur Success
Born in 1963 in Pomona, California, McGwire attended Damien High School. He advanced to the University of Southern California, where he played under coach Rod Dedeaux. His performance during his college years earned him the Sporting News College Baseball Player of the Year award in 1984. He was also a member of the 1984 U.S. Olympic baseball team before being selected tenth overall in the 1984 Major League Baseball draft by the Oakland Athletics.
Professional Debut and Rookie Records
After brief stints with the Modesto A's, Huntsville Stars, and Tacoma Tigers, McGwire debuted with the Oakland Athletics on August 22, 1986. His 1987 rookie season established his reputation as a power hitter. He hit 49 home runs, setting a major-league rookie record that lasted until 2017. He received the Major League Baseball Rookie of the Year Award unanimously and led the league in slugging percentage while also securing a Silver Slugger Award.
Twenty questions, eight minutes on the clock, and a percentile measured against everyone who has taken it. No sign-up.
Take the IQ test →The Bash Brothers Era and Defensive Recognition
During his tenure with Oakland, McGwire became part of the 'Bash Brothers' pairing. He contributed to the 1989 World Series championship team. His defensive skills at first base were formally recognized in 1990 when he was awarded the Rawlings Gold Glove Award. Despite fluctuations in his batting average during the early 1990s, he maintained significant value through his ability to draw walks and produce high on-base percentages.
Career Milestones and Retirement
McGwire finished his career with 583 home runs, ranking 11th in MLB history. His 1998 season remains statistically significant for his 70 home runs, a single-season record at that time. He retired after the 2001 season due to recurring injuries that had limited his playing time in previous years. In 2010, he publicly admitted to using performance-enhancing drugs during a large portion of his career.
Fast facts
- Born: 1963, Pomona
- MLB Debut: August 22, 1986
- Career Home Runs: 583
- Single-Season Home Run Record: 70 (1998)
- Height: 6 feet 5 inches
- Weight: 245 pounds
- Primary Position: First Base
- Teams: Oakland Athletics, St. Louis Cardinals
Questions readers ask
What record did Mark McGwire set in 1998?
He set the then-major league record for home runs in a single season with 70.
Did Mark McGwire admit to using performance-enhancing drugs?
Yes, he publicly admitted in 2010 to using them during a large portion of his career.
How many home runs did he hit as a rookie?
He hit 49 home runs in 1987, which was a major-league record at the time.
Achievements
- Associated Press Athlete of the Year
- Player of the Year
- St. Louis Cardinals Hall of Fame Museum
- Competed at the 1984 Summer Olympics
